The turning point of the episode comes when Ash realizes that standard moves will not work. He suggests a coordinated attack using Z-Moves. This leads to a spectacular sequence where every active trainer on the field performs their Z-Move pose simultaneously.
The episode features a "rainbow" of Z-Moves being launched at the Ultra Beasts:
The combined power of the Z-Moves successfully overwhelms the Ultra Beasts, blasting them back into the Ultra Wormhole and saving the region.
1. The Final "Battle" of Alola While the previous episode concluded the tournament arc, Episode 140 is effectively the final battle sequence of the Sun & Moon series. It provides closure to the combat elements of the saga before the final emotional farewell episodes. Pokemon Sun Moon Episode 140
2. Utilization of the Entire Cast This episode is often praised for giving the entire supporting cast a "moment to shine." Unlike many previous series where the final battle is handled solely by Ash, this episode emphasizes the theme of the Sun & Moon anime: friendship and community. Every student from the Pokémon School contributes to the victory.
3. Visual Spectacle The animation quality in this episode is notably high. The sequence involving multiple Z-Moves being activated at once is visually stunning, showcasing vibrant colors and dynamic animation that highlights the power of the Alola region's trainers.
The episode takes place on Poni Island, the final and most rugged of the Alola region's islands. Ash, accompanied by his classmates, is visiting the Tapu Guardians to pay his respects. However, the peace is shattered when Tapu Fini engages in a fierce battle with Tapu Koko. The intensity of their clash threatens the safety of the islanders and our heroes. The turning point of the episode comes when
Meanwhile, Hala, the Kahuna of Melemele Island, arrives on Poni Island with a specific purpose: to forge a new Z-Ring for Ash. In the previous episodes, Ash’s original Z-Ring was damaged, rendering him unable to use Z-Moves—a critical handicap as the Alola League looms.
To understand the weight of Episode 140, you must remember the previous episode’s shocker: Ash Ketchum won the Alola Pokemon League. For the first time in 22 years of anime history, Ash became a regional Champion. Episode 140 deals directly with the aftermath.
The episode opens not with celebration, but with dread. The artificial Pokemon Magearna—which had been sleeping in the basement of the Masked Royal’s mansion—awakens and transmits a warning. The Ultra Wormhole is opening above the Manalo Stadium. Necrozma, the Prism Pokemon, is stealing the light of Alola. The combined power of the Z-Moves successfully overwhelms
The core plot of Episode 140 revolves around a race against time:
Realizing the danger is too great for any single trainer, Ash rallies his friends and rivals. In a display of unity, Ash, Gladion, Kiawe, Sophocles, Lana, and Mallow all step onto the battlefield. Even Team Rocket attempts to intervene (mostly to save their own skin), and the Island Kahunas—Hala, Olivia, and Nanu—arrive to hold the line.
However, the combined attacks of the trainers fail to penetrate the defenses of Blacephalon and Xurkitree. The Ultra Beasts continue to clash, threatening to destroy the entire island.
For those looking to stream the episode:
Episode Title (Dub): "Z-Move Showdown!" Episode Title (Sub): "Z-Move Showdown! The Battle of the Alola Region!" Season: Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon – Ultra Legends Original Air Date: August 4, 2019 (Japan) / January 11, 2020 (English Dub)